England Qualify For 2018 World Cup

England Qualify For 2018 World Cup

England secured their place at next year’s World Cup in Russia thanks to a 94th-minute winner from striker Harry Kane after an uninspired display against Slovenia.

Kane, England captain for the night, bundled in Kyle Walker‘s cross for his 11th goal in 22 international appearances to finally break down Slovenia’s resistance as they looked likely to hold out for a point.

The result left England six points clear at the top of Group F above neighbours Scotland, whose 1-0 win over 10-man Slovakia in Glasgow left them in pole position to claim the play-off place.

Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling almost broke the deadlock before Kane made his breakthrough, the hosts were also grateful to much-criticised keeper Joe Hart for some crucial interventions.

England manager Gareth Southgate had this to say after the match, “We know we have to be better, but we’re going to a World Cup and that’s fantastic.

“I think this team has potential, but we have a hell of a lot of work to do.”

England and Southgate have achieved their goal. It was not, however, achieved in a manner that will start alarm bells ringing for any future World Cup opposition.